College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences
Explore the big questions with our wide-ranging programs.
Academic Programs
Our rigorous programs bring real-world experience to the classroom, building the knowledge you need to succeed.
Undergraduate
Graduate
Resources
Admissions
Take the next step to success: apply to a program in the College of Humanities, Education, and Social Sciences today!
Student Resources
Experience the range of CHESS student organizations and internships that will help you succeed.
Faculty and Research
Our scholars and professionals will help you develop skills to excel in life, the community, and worldwide.
PNW’s College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences (CHESS) offers a range of hands-on courses that will prepare you to thrive in life after college.
Small class sizes promote opportunities to connect with your fellow CHESS students and professors, helping you succeed throughout your college journey.
Our programs provide students with real-world expertise and collaborative opportunities that will better prepare you for a successful career.
With more than 65 majors, minors and certificates, ranging from broadcast communications to psychology, CHESS has the right program to match your interest!
As a CHESS student, you will work with outstanding teachers who are also engaged in research and scholarships in their fields.
We are building a friendly, supportive community where you and your peers can connect, share ideas, learn together and explore academic inquiries.
I love how welcoming and enjoyable the campus environment is, creating a space where students feel connected and supported. This experience has made my time at PNW both memorable and meaningful.
My professors have always been willing to work with me and give me the support I need. Not only does that make me feel welcomed and heard, but it also models the kind of teacher I want to be.
Get active in the campus community. There’s a campus life here – give it a try! It will make your experience here a lot better.
The constant support around me with professors and my fellow campus ambassadors, push me to help me find out who I want to become and who I am as a person.
I chose Purdue Northwest because the community felt like home while also providing a very engaging and purposeful academic experience.
My major is something that opens door for me to work with children as well as parents to educate them about growth and development as well as open up doors for both parent and child.
News and Announcements
Northwest Indiana Families Value Higher Education at Purdue University Northwest
Purdue University Northwest welcomed 1,653 newly admitted undergraduate students while recording a new record 70.8% retention rate for returning second-year students for the 2026-27 academic year.
Purdue University Northwest’s (PNW) undergraduate program in Elementary Education has once again earned national recognition for excellence in preparing future educators to effectively teach reading.
Purdue University Northwest students earn spring 2026 Dean’s List honors
The Purdue University Northwest spring 2026 Dean’s List recognizes 1,834 undergraduate students for their academic achievements.
Important Dates
Sep 22
Fall 2026 Career ExpoThe PNW 2026 Fall Career Expo is a career fair for students and alumni of Purdue University Northwest that are seeking full time employment and internships across all industries and academic majors.
Oct 12
Fall BreakPNW will observe Fall Break on Monday and Tuesday, October 12 and 13, 2026. There are no classes, but campus offices are open, with some exceptions.
Oct 26
Spring 2027 Priority Registration BeginsRegister for classes during Priority Registration to get the best selection of class days and times!
Nov 13
Last Day to Drop a Full-Term Fall 2026 CourseThe last day to drop a Full-Term Fall 2026 Course is Friday, November 13, 2025, at 4:30 p.m.